Equine Neurological PCR Panel
The Equine Neurological PCR Panel is a diagnostic assay designed to detect the presence of key pathogens causing neurological disease in horses, including Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), West Nile Virus (WNV), Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEE), and Sarcocystis neurona. This panel utilizes advanced real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) technology for the sensitive and specific identification of these pathogens in clinical samples such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), blood, or tissue.This panel includes
Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1): Known for causing Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), EHV-1 leads to CNS inflammation, resulting in ataxia, hind limb weakness, and urinary incontinence.
West Nile Virus (WNV): A mosquito-borne flavivirus, WNV causes encephalitis, with symptoms like fever, muscle fasciculations, and impaired coordination.
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE): An arbovirus causing severe neurological disease, EEE often results in rapid onset of fever, depression, and seizures, with high mortality rates.
Sarcocystis neurona: The protozoan agent of Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM), S. neurona causes asymmetric muscle atrophy, weakness, and ataxia.
2 ml CSF
Collect an adequate amount of CSF in a K2EDTA (purple top tube). Gently mix blood well after collection.
Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label
Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
Pusterla, N., et al. "Molecular Diagnostics for Equine Tick-Borne Diseases: Utility of Comprehensive rtPCR Panels." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
Hinchcliff, K.W., et al. "Advances in the Diagnosis of Equine Tick-Borne Pathogens Using Real-Time PCR." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
Sellon, D.C., et al. "Detection and Management of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Horses: A Molecular Perspective." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.